How to Dress With No Bra

Co-authored by Jordan Stolch

Last Updated: October 21, 2021 References

Bras provide support and padding that can make clothing look more flattering. However, bras can also be uncomfortable and even get in the way of wearing some kinds of clothing. If you are considering a braless look, then it is important to consider what to wear. You may also benefit from using some tricks to hide your nipples and keep your breasts covered. If you are still on the fence about going braless, then there are some things that might help you decide if it is right for you.

Method 1

Method 1 of 3:

Going Braless

1
Wear nipple covers or tape to hide your nipples. One way to prevent your nipples from being visible through your clothing is to cover them up with nipple tape or pasties.^{[1]
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Expert Source

Jordan Stolch
Image Consultant & Style Advisor
Expert Interview. 27 May 2021.} You can find these in the lingerie section of most department stores or in lingerie specialty stores.
- To use pasties, remove the adhesive from the pasty and apply it over your nipple.
- To use nipple tape, apply a couple of strips over your nipples in the form of an X.
- Try silicone nipple covers. They're reusable and stick to your body without adhesive. They work with most fabrics and styles of clothing.
2
Wear thick fabric tops. Avoid clothing that is made with thin or sheer fabric.^{[4]
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Expert Source

Jordan Stolch
Image Consultant & Style Advisor
Expert Interview. 27 May 2021.} Thin fabric could expose your nipples, especially if the fabric is a light color. If you want to wear a top or dress like this without a bra, try wearing it over an undershirt or slip.^{[5]
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- Silk or satin tops might not be a good choice when you go braless because the material is thin and it may be too revealing.
3
Choose dark colors. Dark colors are less likely to become see through in bright light or if your shirt becomes wet. If you will be outside on a sunny day or there's a chance of rain, wear tops that are made with dark fabric. Otherwise, your nipples may be visible through the fabric.^{[6]
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- Fabric with patterns, especially small patterns, may also help to conceal your nipples.
4
Use toupee tape to keep your neckline in place. You may feel more confident if you tape the neckline of a low cut top or dress to your chest. This will help to prevent the fabric from slipping and showing your nipples. Toupee tape is ideal for keeping your neckline in place.^{[7]
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- Place the tape along the edges of your neckline and then press the other side of the tape against your skin to hold it in place.
- Tape can't make up for clothing that just doesn't fit right. If you're going to go without a bra, it's essential that your clothes fit properly.^{[8]
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5
Use surgical tape to keep your breasts in place. Surgical tape is a heavy-duty tape made to stick to skin, and you can find it in drug stores. Keep in mind that taping is uncomfortable, so it's best reserved for special occasions. To properly apply surgical tape:^{[9]
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- Lean over to lift your breasts.
- Apply a 12 to 16 in (30 to 41 cm) strip of tape from the outside of one breast to the outside of the other. Keep the tape on the underside of your breasts.
- Stand up and apply another strip of tape across your breasts, pulling them together and covering your nipples. The ends of the second tape should touch the ends of the first strip.

Method 2

Method 2 of 3:

Choosing What to Wear

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Pick something that makes you feel good. The most important thing to consider when choosing how to dress without a bra is how an outfit will make you feel. Don't wear anything that makes you feel uncomfortable or self-conscious. Choose something that flatters your body, suits your style, and makes you feel great when you put it on.
- For example, if low-cut tops make you feel self-conscious, then they're not the best choice for you. Try a low-back top or spaghetti strap dress instead.
2
Try a classic no-bra top or dress. There are some types of tops and dresses that don't look as good with a bra, so wearing these when you go braless might be a good idea. Try wearing low back and backless tops, or go for a strapless or spaghetti strap dress or top. Some other items that might look better without a bra include:
- Dresses and tops with plunging necklines.
- Tops with laced-up fronts, backs, or sides.
- Tops and dresses with keyholes in the back.
- Halter tops and tube tops.
3
Look for items with built-in bras and support. Some items of clothing have built-in bras, breast cups, or elastic bands that eliminate the need for a bra. Try looking for clothes that have some built-in support to make going braless a little easier.
- A tank top with a built-in bra can help you transition into bralessness. You can still to wear them afterwards under sheer tops.^{[10]
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- Bodysuits and leotards provide built-in support and make cute additions to braless outfits. Try one under a thin, button-down top for a breezy look.
4
Consider starting with a layered braless look. Layers are great without a bra because they can hide your bralessness. This wardrobe technique is especially useful in the wintertime. For this reason, winter might even be the best time to try going braless, if you're nervous about the transition.^{[11]
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- A thick sweater will hide your nipples, so this might be a good braless clothing choice if you are worried about your nipples showing.
- A T-shirt over or under a long-sleeve shirt is also a great braless combo.
- Jackets and cardigans are another great layering option, and can keep your warm when the weather takes an unexpected turn.^{[12]
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Method 3

Method 3 of 3:

Considering Going Braless

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Consider your clothes. You may want to consider going braless in tops or dresses which your bra would peek out of if you wore one. Deep plunging necklines, large keyholes in the back, and backless tops or dresses are all items of clothing that look better when worn without a bra.
- Tops or dresses with spaghetti straps or no straps can usually be worn with a strapless bra.
- Not all fabrics are suitable for bralessness. Thin or lacy fabrics will leave your nipples exposed, and some fabrics, like wool or stiff cotton, may irritate your skin.
- Synthetic fabrics, like Lycra or nylon, work well without a bra because they're smooth, comfortable, and offer support.
- Try to choose thicker, fitted fabrics that help hold everything in place.^{[13]
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  Jordan Stolch
  Image Consultant & Style Advisor
  Expert Interview. 27 May 2021.}
2
Examine the situation. There are some situations where you might be expected to wear a bra. Job interviews, court appearances, or meeting your partner's parents for the first time might not be the best times to go braless. If you decide not to wear a bra, think about the situation first and decide if you will feel comfortable going braless.^{[14]
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- Remember: you can dress however you like. If going braless makes you feel more comfortable, then do it! Don't let anyone make you feel bad about yourself—ever.^{[15]
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3
Don't worry about sagging. There is no evidence that going without a bra makes your breasts sag earlier, and no evidence that wearing a bra keeps them from sagging. Several recent studies have even found that going braless regularly may actually help your breasts to become perkier.^{[16]
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- You should still wear a sports bra when you exercise, however. It will help keep your breasts in place, which is important when you're moving a lot.
4
Ease into bralessness. If you want to start going without a bra more often, you may experience some discomfort since your breasts aren't used to being free to move. To ease into bralessness, try one of the following:^{[17]
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- Trade in your padded underwire for one without pads or underwires.
- Go braless at night and around the house until you feel comfortable without your bra on.

Community Q&A

Question

How do I stop my bra from itching?

Community Answer

Clean it regularly and don't scratch; this might infect the nipples or breasts. If you wear the same bra every day without washing it, it can get germs and bacteria in it and cause infections.
Question

Should I worry if I'm 12 and don't wear bras yet?

Community Answer

You shouldn't worry at all! Not everyone needs or wants to wear a bra! Bras are completely optional at your age. If you have a larger bust, you might want to consider trying out a real bra, but if your boobs haven't started growing yet or have grown just a little bit and you want to start wearing a bra, go with a cute training bra, which you can get basically anywhere!
Question

Can you wear a bra with a strapless dress?

Community Answer

Sometimes, if the bra straps are pretty, not tatty and you don't mind the odd match between the bra and the dress. Most times it's easier to just get a strapless bra for a strapless dress as it will look more attractive as a whole.